As the arts scene continues to grow in Cambodia, there is perhaps one facet that remains absent; theatre. Outside of expat productions, local theatre tends to revolve around traditional dance or shadow puppetry and until recently there were no theatre programs aimed at the biggest demographic group in Cambodia; children. By setting up its own performing arts troupe, in 2015, Meta House/KDKG has successfully introduced educational theatre into schools and universities nation-wide, in direct cooperation with the MoEYS and the NGO, Khmer Art Action (KAA).

So far, more than 50,000 students have attended the performances of three original plays, written by emerging Cambodian authors: The Courageous Turtle, by Chea Sokyou, introduces audiences to the darkest chapter of this country’s history and how the legacy of the Pol Pot years has left its mark on every day life; The Sober Loris, by Choun Sopheap, educates youth about the risks of underage-drinking and drunk-driving; I am a Daughter, by Kim Dyna, advocates girl empowerment and gender-equality.

In these “two-hander” plays, where two actors switch into the role of several characters, promoting the notion of personal development through interactivity is key. All playwrights use humor to deliver important messages. Events are moderated by young facilitators; real-life testimonials and intergenerational dialogue sessions that accompany the performances to ensure credibility. Because of the direct participation of Khmer Rouge survivors (Civil Parties), The Courageous Turtle is one of nearly 30 reparation projects either recognised or currently awaiting recognition by Cambodia’s internationalised Khmer Rouge tribunal.

A big thank you goes to our donors and partners, such as the European Commission in Cambodia, United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), Rosa-Luxemburg-Foundation (RLS), and Diageo’s Smashed Project in partnership with Collingwood Leaerning (UK). For more information, event dates, tour schedules or bookings please contact us.